The PowerLinc Modem 2413U biggest difference with the older 2414U is that it sends and receives both power line and radio frequency (RF) INSTEON signals, so it doubles as both an interface controller and AccessPoint. - thus, "Dual-Band."

More Differences that the PowerLinc Modem (2413U) has with the older INSTEON PowerLinc Controller (2414U)

The PowerLinc Modem (PLM) is faster at sending and receiving general INSTEON commands (on, off, set brightness, etc.) than the PowerLinc Controller (PLC) 2414U

The PLM has surge protection (MOV rated for 150 Volts); the PLC does not.

And — a special NOTE: The PLM 2413U does NOT have the ability to work off line at all because it does not have an internal clock chip or any flash memory to hold uploaded schedules. Once you quit Indigo or turn your Mac off, the PLM 2413U cannot control any of your devices.

Added Plus from MacHomeStore.com

As an added service from MacHomeStore.com, we “pre-test” each and every INSTEON PowerLinc Modem before we ship it out the door to you. We do this under the latest version of Indigo installed on our Macs here. We do this because we recognize that this device is the crucial link between your home automation software (Indigo) and all those neat INSTEON and X-10 devices you have installed. Just a little added assurance because we want satisfaction from you, not frustration. We also include with every PowerLinc Modem an exclusive "Setup Instruction Sheet" that explains in easy to follow steps how to get your INSTEON PowerLinc Modem up and running quickly with Indigo Lite and Pro. It supersedes and simplifies the manufacturer's instruction sheet which, of course, is primarily geared toward the (ugh!) PC platform.